How to Control Winter Annual and Perennial Broadleaf Weeds

Maintaining a vigorous turf will protect against weed infestation. However, during the winter months, grasses are not actively growing and are then susceptible to the growth of winter annual and perennial broadleaf weeds. Controlling these weeds before they are able to set seed will not only reduce the likelihood of an outbreak in the spring but will improve the quality of your lawn.

The main winter annual broadleaf weeds in Tennessee are common Chickweed, Henbit, and Shepherd’s Purse. The mustard species, henbit, and marestail can be found as well. The main winter perennial broadleaf weeds include Clover, Dandelions, Dichondra, and Wild Onions. These species germinate in the autumn or early winter, over-winter, then grow in the spring.

Controlling the Weeds in Your Lawn

The first approach to keep winter annual and perennial broadleaf weeds at bay is to follow cultural practices that encourage vigorous turfgrass growth and development. These weeds do not easily invade turfgrasses that are adequately maintained. Adequate fertilization, mowing and irrigation habits during the summer months will lead to a robust turfgrass in the fall. Increasing the turf density will reduce the bare areas where winter annual broadleaf weeds will thrive. Aeration along with overseeding will help fill in bare areas making it more difficult for the winter weeds to grow. A good weed control along with proper root fertilization is critical for this species, especially in the late fall.

Turf maintenance during the summer months will help prevent the encroachment of winter annual and perennial broadleaf weeds in autumn. Use control practices before these weeds produce seeds that can be deposited into the soil. There are, however, multiple options for post-emergent control of winter annual and perennial broadleaf weeds.